How My Jeep Transformed My Life

Finding Purpose Through Off-Roading
A New Chapter Begins

As my 50th birthday grew closer, life threw me a curveball that I never saw coming. The "empty nest" wasn't just a phrase – it was a reality that hit me like a ton of bricks. It hit me even before my kids officially left the nest. In 2012, my two incredible boys, who had always been the center of my universe, were growing up and carving their own paths. Even though they were still in middle and high school, I could feel the shift. Suddenly, my identity as a minivan-driving, PTA-presiding, scout-leading soccer mom began to crumble.

A special moment—walking my youngest son
and our dog to his first day of school. 

Depression crept in, silent but powerful. My body was changing, hormones were raging, and the sense of purpose that had driven me for years seemed to vanish overnight. I found myself drowning in a sea of uncertainty, desperately searching for a lifeline - one that no one seemed to know I needed or was helping me with.

For years, I had lived the "Soccer Mom" dream. My calendar was filled with sports events, school activities, and endless conversations about our children's lives. But as I looked around at the other moms, I realized I didn't quite fit. Their hobbies and interests felt foreign to me, and I couldn't shake the feeling that I had lost touch with my own passions somewhere along the way.

I also found that trying to re-enter the workforce was incredibly difficult. My resume had a hole in it from being a stay-at-home mom, and I didn’t know what career path I wanted. I spent a couple of years facing rejections.  

The Isolation of Rediscovery

Then, on a seemingly ordinary day, a glimmer of hope appeared in the most unexpected form – a Jeep Wrangler. A dad in our Boy Scout troop arrived at a camping trip in his Jeep, and the pure joy radiating from the kids as they piled out, faces beaming and hair wind-tousled, sparked something inside me. The camaraderie of Jeep waves and the sense of adventure hanging in the air were intoxicating.

I couldn't stop talking about that Jeep all weekend. Later that week my youngest son, sensing my excitement, found a nearby Jeep dealer. The next day, I took a leap of faith and test-drove a brand-new Jeep Wrangler Sahara. The moment I got behind the wheel, something clicked. By sunset, I was the proud owner of a sleek black 2013 Jeep Wrangler Sahara.

Nothing beats that first ride in a new Jeep!
Enjoying the experience with my youngest. 

Little did I know, this wasn't just a new vehicle – it was the key to rediscovering myself. That Jeep became my passport to a world of adventure, new friendships, and a renewed sense of purpose. It challenged me to step out of my comfort zone, to embrace the unknown, and to find joy in the journey rather than the destination.

Finding Kinship on the Trails

Eager to learn, I decided to take lessons on how to use my 4WD and learn about off-road techniques. I enrolled in private lessons at Rausch Creek Off-Road Park with Off-Road Consulting, and from the very first lesson, I was hooked. The thrill of tackling rocky terrain, the feeling of power as my Jeep pushed through tough obstacles, and the adrenaline rush was like nothing I'd ever experienced before. It was in those moments that I realized – this was more than just driving; it was a passion, a calling.

The day I got hooked on off-roading!
My first off-road adventure
 with Kyle from Off-Road Consulting

I went back for more lessons and off-road adventures, and each time I returned, I met other off-roaders and Jeepers who shared the same love for adventure. We spoke the same language, laughed at the same jokes, and connected over the challenges and triumphs of off-roading. There was a deep sense of kinship and camaraderie that I had never felt before, and it was contagious.

My new Jeep Friends! 

Out on the trails, surrounded by my Jeep and new friends, I felt more alive than ever. I was no longer just a mom or a wife. I was an adventurer, a risk-taker, a woman reclaiming her identity. But when I left the off-road park and returned to my suburban neighborhood, I faced a different reality. None of my friends shared my passion for off-roading or outdoors. My kids, now older teens, had their own lives and it wasn’t “cool” to hang out with their mom anymore. My husband at the time had no interest in off-roading either, and we began to grow apart.

Finding My Path Amidst the Struggles

It wasn’t just the Jeep that helped me rediscover myself; it was also the realization that I was navigating a significant personal transition. As I embraced this new passion for off-roading, I found myself facing not only physical challenges on the trails but emotional ones at home. My relationship began to feel distant, and despite my excitement about my new journey, I felt unsupported by those closest to me—my friends and my husband.

I wasn’t looking for escape, but rather a way to rediscover who I was. I longed for someone to share in this new adventure, to understand why I was so passionate about this pursuit. But instead, I felt more and more isolated, caught between my old life and the person I was becoming. It took me a long time to realize that it wasn’t just about the Jeep or the trails—it was about me needing to find something that was truly mine, a way to feel connected to myself again.

A Missing Piece

We all need a sense of purpose in life—whether it’s work, hobbies, volunteering, or raising children. At that point, I felt like I had none of that anymore. My children were growing up, my role as a mom was changing, and the activities that once filled my days were no longer there. It was all gone. I was utterly lost.

Despite the isolation when I was at home, I clung to my newfound sense of self. The Jeep had given me a sense of belonging, a feeling of being part of something bigger. It wasn’t just a vehicle; it was the catalyst that helped me rediscover my passion and my purpose.

Embracing the Adventure Ahead

This journey wasn't just about learning to navigate rocky trails. It was about navigating life's transitions, finding strength I didn't know I possessed, and embracing a new chapter with open arms. My Jeep didn’t just change my mode of transportation – it changed my entire perspective on life.

But something was still missing…

Have you ever found unexpected joy in a new hobby or passion? How has it transformed your life? Share your stories in the comments below – I’d love to hear how you’ve navigated life's twists and turns!

FAQ's

1.. How did off-roading help you during a difficult time in your life?

Off-roading became my escape. I was going through a huge personal transition and feeling isolated. My family and friends didn’t understand my passion for it, and it was tough. But out on the trails, I found freedom and a sense of belonging that I wasn’t getting at home. It helped me reconnect with myself and gave me the courage to make some difficult decisions about my life. Read more about finding balance in my blog post Live Your Best Life.

2. How did you cope with the loneliness while pursuing your passion?

It wasn’t easy. I often felt like I was the only one who understood what I needed, and at times, I thought something was wrong with me for feeling so alone. But as I met other off-roaders and Jeepers who shared the same passion, I found a community that understood me. That sense of kinship and camaraderie helped me push through the loneliness. Check out my blog post Empty Nest Tips for Getting Through Challenges: The Evolution of Motherhood for more on overcoming challenges like this.

3. Was there ever a moment when you questioned whether off-roading was worth it?

There were definitely moments of doubt, especially when I felt like I was losing touch with my family and friends. But each time I went off-roading, I felt like I was getting closer to the person I was meant to be. It wasn’t just about the trails—it was about finding my own purpose and reclaiming my identity. That made all the struggles worth it.

4. What advice do you have for someone who feels alone in pursuing their passion?

If you’re feeling alone, I get it. It’s tough when no one around you shares your interests. But trust me—there are people out there who understand. Whether it’s through online communities, local meetups, or just finding one person who shares your passion, don’t give up on finding that support. Pursuing something that makes you feel alive and purposeful is worth the journey, even if it means you have to go through some tough times. Check out my page on Steps to Find Your Passion for more tips on starting your own journey.

 ✨ Follow My Journey: From Newsroom to Off-Road Trails to the Jeep Industry ✨

Want to read my full Personal Transformation Series? Head over to my Empower Page and scroll down to the Career Transition section to explore all 5 parts!

The Stay-at-Home Mom

Navigating an Unexpected Career Shift

I never saw it coming. One day, I was lugging camera equipment through city streets, chasing the next big story. The next, I was cradling my newborn son, realizing my biggest story was right there in my arms.

My transition from news videographer to stay-at-home mom wasn’t meticulously planned. There was no farewell party, no final sign-off in the newsroom. Instead, my water broke, and just like that, my career took an unexpected turn.

At the time, I didn’t fully grasp that my last day in the newsroom would be the end of my career in television news. I had spent nine months pregnant, never once considering how dramatically motherhood would redefine my life's direction.

Then, I held my son for the first time. That instinctual shift everyone talks about? It hit me like a ton of bricks. Suddenly, the thought of returning to the fast-paced newsroom felt… wrong. I knew, in that moment, my days of chasing breaking news were over.

Holding my little boy for the first time! 

The Immersion into Motherhood

Those first few months were a whirlwind of sleepless nights, endless diaper changes, and an overwhelming sense of responsibility. My life became a series of feeding schedules and nap routines. The structured deadlines of a newsroom were replaced by the unpredictable chaos of parenting. 

And I loved it.

I threw myself into every aspect of my children's development—music classes, playdates, advocating for them in school, and volunteering. I embraced my role wholeheartedly, never stopping to think about what would happen when they no longer needed me in the same capacity.

As my children grew, I became more involved in their education, taking on leadership roles in the PTA, planning events, and advocating for students. I discovered organizational and leadership skills I never knew I had. Yet, despite these newly honed abilities, I wasn’t focused on my professional self. My identity was wrapped up in motherhood. My career, my ambitions—they were all on hold.

But here’s the thing: While I wasn’t in the workforce, I was still gaining invaluable experience. And so are millions of stay-at-home moms worldwide.

Redefining Self-Worth Beyond "Just a Mom"

For years, my professional identity was my badge of honor—I was a journalist, a storyteller, a news videographer. But when I transitioned to full-time motherhood, that title vanished. Instead, I found myself introducing myself as "just a mom." 

It took me a long time to realize that phrase was selling myself short.

Motherhood didn’t erase my skills—it refined them. The ability to multitask under pressure? That was being put to the ultimate test. Crisis management? Every toddler tantrum was a new lesson. Leadership, problem-solving, adaptability? I was using them daily, whether organizing PTA meetings, running school fundraisers, or managing a household.

Still, as my kids became more independent, I found myself wondering: What comes next?
The realization hit me: I needed to think about me. About my goals, my professional future, and how I could leverage my skills beyond motherhood.

Time with my two boys carving pumpkins. 

Keeping Your Professional Life Relevant as a Stay-at-Home Mom

Many stay-at-home parents face the same dilemma—how to keep their professional identity intact while focusing on raising children, it's a balancing act. Here are a few actionable strategies:

1. Stay Connected to Your Industry

• Follow industry news, blogs, and podcasts.
• Join professional organizations or LinkedIn groups.
• Attend webinars or virtual conferences when possible.

2. Keep Your Skills Sharp

• Take online courses (platforms like Coursera, Udemy, and LinkedIn Learning offer flexible learning options).
• Volunteer in ways that align with your expertise—whether it’s event planning, fundraising, or community advocacy.
• Write, blog, or create content about your area of expertise.

3. Network, Even if It's Virtually

• Stay in touch with former colleagues and mentors.
• Use LinkedIn to engage with professionals in your field.
• Attend local meetups or industry events.

4. Create a Portfolio of Your Experience

• Document leadership roles, volunteer work, or freelancing.
• Highlight transferable skills on your resume.
• Consider part-time or contract work to stay engaged.

5. Give Yourself Permission to Evolve

• Your career might not look the same post-motherhood—and that’s okay.
• Be open to new industries or roles that align with your new skills.
• Recognize that personal growth is professional growth.

The Unexpected Adventure Ahead

Looking back, I see how every moment—from breaking news to broken crayons—was preparing me for my next chapter. Motherhood didn’t derail my career; it reshaped it. The skills I developed in the newsroom didn’t disappear—they evolved into something even more valuable.

To every stay-at-home parent wondering if their professional journey is over: It’s not. It’s simply on a different path. And sometimes, the detour leads to a destination even greater than the one you originally planned.

FAQs: Navigating a Career Shift as a Stay-at-Home Mom

Q: Will employers take my career break seriously?
A: Some will some won't. Many employers recognize the valuable skills developed during parenting, such as time management, leadership, and multitasking. Be confident in showcasing your experiences.

Q: How do I explain my time as a stay-at-home parent on a resume?
A: Instead of a gap, frame it as a period of skill development. Example:
Chief Household Officer | 2015-2023
Managed complex schedules, budgeting, and conflict resolution.
Led community events, fundraising initiatives, and school advocacy programs.
Developed content and social media strategies for volunteer projects.

Q: What if I don’t want to return to my old career?
A: That’s okay! Many stay-at-home moms use this transition to explore new passions, start businesses, or switch industries. Focus on your transferable skills and explore what excites you now.

Q: How do I build confidence in my professional skills after years at home?
A: Start small—take a class, update your LinkedIn, do a small freelance project. Confidence builds with action.

My journey from news videographer to stay-at-home mom and now into a new career wasn’t what I expected. But every challenge, every transition, has led me to something greater.
If you're a stay-at-home mom wondering what’s next—trust yourself. Your skills, your experience, your resilience—it all matters. And your next adventure? It’s waiting for you.

 ✨ Follow My Journey: From Newsroom to Off-Road Trails to the Jeep Industry ✨

Want to read my full Personal Transformation Series? Head over to my Empower Page and scroll down to the Career Transition section to explore all 5 parts!

From Breaking News to Breaking Trails

A Journey of Change

The world I once knew was filled with the steady hum of police scanners, the frantic tapping of keyboards, and the constant chatter of reporters on the phone. These sounds were the heartbeat of my life for years. But if you had told me back then that I would one day trade my news desk for the dashboard of a Jeep, I would have laughed at the thought.

Tammy running the afternoon news meeting
discussing the days news with colleagues. 

Welcome to the first chapter of my "Personal Transformation" series. I'm Jeep Momma, and today, you're more likely to find me conquering off-road trails than chasing breaking news. But before we hit the dirt, let's rewind to where it all began – in the heart of a 1986 newly formed television station trying to make it's way in the ratings. 

Picture this: It's 1985, and I'm fresh out of Radio & Television Broadcasting School, looking to break into the competitive market of news. My dream? To one day become a top journalist in a big city market. 

My first job as a Master Control Operator at KBMY-TV in Bismarck quickly evolved into a role as a reporter/videographer – what we used to call a "one-man band." I still remember the nervous excitement of editing my first news story for broadcast. The moment that video aired, I was hooked.

Stepping Out of My Comfort Zone: Small Market to Medium Market

After three years in this small market, I craved more. I landed a job as a news videographer in Charleston, South Carolina – a medium market that promised new challenges and opportunities. It was time to leave my hometown comfort zone and venture into the unknown.

Jeep Momma Behind the Lens:
Covering the President in South Carolina, 1989

Life in a Bustling Newsroom: The Thrill of Breaking News

Charleston was a whole new world. The South, with its rich culture and unique rhythm of life, felt like a dramatic shift. The newsroom was a far cry from the small team I had worked with before. It buzzed with energy: reporters clustered around desks, police scanners constantly crackling, and a fleet of news vehicles – live trucks ready to roll at a moment’s notice. And there I was, wide-eyed, eager, and ready to dive into the chaos.

My first task? load up the 100 pounds of gear into my news vehicle and head out to cover breaking news. At the time I was the only female news videographer in the city. 

Tammy behind the camera in the early 90s.
Check out that awesome video gear!

Breaking News: Facing Nature's Fury

During my time in TV news, I covered numerous challenging stories, but none quite like Hurricane Hugo and Hurricane Andrew. In my early 20's, I witnessed death and destruction firsthand, experiences that would shape my perspective and resilience for years to come.

Hurricane Hugo was particularly challenging as I found myself living the nightmare of the storm while simultaneously covering it. The dual role of survivor and journalist tested my ability to remain objective while processing personal trauma – a skill that would prove invaluable in my future endeavors.

When I traveled to Southern Florida to cover Hurricane Andrew, the devastation was overwhelming. With no habitable structures available, we slept and edited our stories in our news vehicle. This experience taught me the importance of adaptability and resourcefulness – traits that would serve me well in my future off-road adventures.

In August 1993, Homestead, Florida
was hit hard by Hurricane Andrew.
Here I am, working tirelessly to get the story out,
even from the back of a news vehicle."

Technological Evolution: From Analog to Digital

The technological landscape of news gathering has undergone a dramatic transformation since my early days in the field. In 1985, we were firmly in the analog era, working with bulky 3/4" video tape and hefty cameras that required significant physical strength to operate effectively.

Fast forward to my life as a vlogger, and the change is staggering. I had to relearn editing and camera work using digital technology – a challenge that echoed my earlier career transition. This adaptability highlights a crucial lesson: in both journalism and life, the ability to evolve with technology is key to staying relevant and effective.

Looking back, those early days of shooting video, rushing back to the station to edit, and learning the fast-paced rhythm of the newsroom would lay the groundwork for something far greater than I could ever have imagined.

Stay tuned for the next chapter of my unexpected transformation as my story morphs into the next stage. 

Storytelling Through Video: Tips from a Former News Videographer

• Embrace Natural Sound: Let the environment tell part of the story. Capture the sounds of the scene – be it the howling wind of a hurricane or the crunch of tires on a rocky trail. These audio elements add depth and authenticity to your narrative.
• Show, Don't Just Tell: Visual storytelling is powerful. Instead of relying solely on narration, use compelling visuals to convey your message. A well-framed shot can often speak louder than words.
• Vary Your Shots: Mix wide, medium, and close-up shots to provide context and detail. This variety keeps viewers engaged and helps paint a complete picture of the story.
• Be Patient: Sometimes, the best moments come when you least expect them. Wait for those genuine reactions or unexpected events that can elevate your story.
• Edit with Purpose: Every cut should serve the story. Be ruthless in your editing, keeping only the footage that moves your narrative forward or adds significant value.
• Maintain Stability: Whether you're covering a breaking news story or capturing an off-road adventure, stable footage is crucial. Invest in good stabilization equipment or practice steady handheld techniques.
• Capture B-roll: Always gather more footage than you think you'll need. B-roll can be invaluable for covering edits and adding visual interest to your story.

The skills I honed in the newsroom – from staying calm under pressure to telling compelling visual stories – have been instrumental in my transition to off-road adventurer and content creator. They've allowed me to share my Jeep journey in a way that resonates with viewers and readers alike.

FAQs: Transitioning from Journalism to Jeep Adventures

Q: How did you transition from a news videographer to a Jeep adventurer?

A: My transition was unexpected. After years of covering breaking news and natural disasters, I found myself drawn to a different kind of storytelling—documenting off-road adventures and sharing Jeep-related content. The skills I developed in journalism, like video editing, storytelling, and adaptability, helped me make the shift.

Q: What skills from journalism helped in off-road content creation?

A: Many skills translated seamlessly—storytelling through video, capturing compelling footage, working under pressure, and staying adaptable. The ability to frame a shot, edit efficiently, and maintain a narrative flow has been invaluable in creating engaging off-road content.

Q: How did covering natural disasters shape your perspective?

A: Covering events like Hurricanes Hugo and Andrew taught me resilience, adaptability, and problem-solving under extreme conditions. These experiences helped me develop the mental toughness needed for off-road challenges and overcoming obstacles on the trail.

Q: What advice do you have for those transitioning careers?

A: Embrace change, focus on transferable skills, and be open to learning new things. Career transitions can be intimidating, but adaptability and persistence can lead to unexpected and fulfilling opportunities.

 ✨ Follow My Journey: From Newsroom to Off-Road Trails to the Jeep Industry ✨

Want to read my full Personal Transformation Series? Head over to my Empower Page and scroll down to the Career Transition section to explore all 5 parts!

What is a FC Jeep?

 A Blast from the Past!

FC stands for Forward Control. It's a truck that Willys Motors produced from 1956 to 1965. The FC Jeep has a distinctive cab-over-engine design. This means the driver sits right above the engine!

In 2022 I had my first ride in an FC Jeep. It was amazing! The experience happened at the 5th Annual FC Jeep Jamboree in Iowa.

Check out the video My First FC Jeep Ride. Talk about a trip back in time!

These iconic Jeep Forward Control (FC) trucks
stand out with their cab-over-engine design,
making them a unique piece of Jeep history.

Why FC Jeeps are Special

FC Jeeps were revolutionary for their time. They offered:

• A compact design with a long cargo bed
• Standard four-wheel drive (rare in the 1950s)
• Great maneuverability in tight spaces

These trucks were workhorses. They served in commercial, industrial, and even military roles.

My FC Jeep Adventure

At the Jamboree, I met Dan, a passionate FC Jeep collector. He shared fascinating stories about these trucks. Dan's enthusiasm was contagious!

The FC Jeep's unique look turned heads everywhere. It felt like driving a piece of history. The cab-over design gave an unparalleled view of the road.

A display of vintage Jeep Forward Control (FC)
 trucks showcasing their unique cab-over-engine
design and timeless charm. 

For more interesting Jeep Culture stories check out my other Jeep posts.